A method and apparatus for controlling a battery operating mode. The method includes connecting an electronic processor to a first electrical contact of a battery interface via a switch; generating, with the electronic processor, an initialization pulse for a signal demultiplexer of a battery; transmitting the initialization pulse to the signal demultiplexer; generating, with the electronic processor, a data word indicating a desired operating mode; transmitting the data word to the signal demultiplexer; generating, with the signal demultiplexer, a signal to electrically connect a first battery switch to the first electrical contact, the first battery switch selected based on the data word; receiving, with an analog to digital converter of the electrical device, a signal indicating the operating mode voltage; and verifying, with the electronic processor, a correct operating mode based on the operating mode voltage.
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1. An apparatus for controlling a battery operating mode, the apparatus comprising an electrical device, the electrical device including a plurality of switches, an analog-to-digital converter configured to receive an operating mode voltage and an electronic processor, the electronic processor configured to generate an initialization pulse, generate a data word indicating a desired operating mode, and verify a correct operating mode based on the operating mode voltage; a battery interface, the battery interface including a first electrical contact, a first one of the plurality of switches electrically connecting the electronic processor to the first electrical contact; and a battery, the battery including a plurality of battery switches and a signal demultiplexer electrically connected to the first electrical contact, the signal demultiplexer configured to receive the initialization pulse, receive the data word, generate a signal to electrically connect a first battery switch of the plurality of battery switches to the first electrical contact for transmitting the operating mode voltage to the analog-to-digital converter of the electrical device, the first battery switch selected based on the data word.
This invention relates to a system for controlling the operating mode of a battery, addressing the need for efficient and accurate battery management in electronic devices. The apparatus includes an electrical device with multiple switches, an analog-to-digital converter, and an electronic processor. The processor generates an initialization pulse and a data word that specifies the desired battery operating mode, then verifies the correct mode by analyzing the operating mode voltage received by the converter. The battery interface features an electrical contact connected to the processor via one of the switches. The battery itself contains multiple switches and a signal demultiplexer linked to the electrical contact. The demultiplexer processes the initialization pulse and data word to select and activate a specific battery switch, enabling the transmission of the operating mode voltage back to the electrical device for verification. This ensures precise control and monitoring of the battery's operational state, improving efficiency and reliability in battery-powered systems. The system dynamically adjusts the battery's configuration based on the desired mode, optimizing performance and safety.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein a pulse width of the initialization pulse is greater than a pulse width of a reset pulse of a current operating mode of the battery.
A battery management system includes an apparatus for controlling a battery, where the apparatus generates an initialization pulse to reset the battery's state. The initialization pulse has a pulse width that is greater than the pulse width of a reset pulse used in the battery's current operating mode. This ensures a more thorough reset of the battery's internal state, improving reliability and performance. The apparatus may also include a controller that monitors battery parameters, such as voltage, current, and temperature, to determine when an initialization pulse is needed. The controller adjusts the pulse width dynamically based on the battery's condition, ensuring optimal reset performance under varying operating conditions. The system may further include a communication interface to transmit battery status data to an external device, allowing for remote monitoring and control. The initialization pulse is applied during specific conditions, such as after a power interruption or when the battery enters a degraded state, to restore proper functionality. The apparatus ensures that the battery operates within safe limits while maintaining efficiency.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal demultiplexer generates a signal to connect the first battery switch to a pull-up resistor when the initialization pulse is received.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing battery connections in electronic systems, particularly during initialization. The apparatus addresses the problem of ensuring proper power distribution and signal integrity when multiple batteries are connected to a system, preventing voltage conflicts or unintended power loss during startup sequences. The apparatus includes a signal demultiplexer that controls battery switches based on initialization pulses. When an initialization pulse is received, the demultiplexer generates a control signal to connect a first battery switch to a pull-up resistor. This connection stabilizes the voltage level at the switch, preventing transient voltage spikes or drops that could disrupt system operation. The pull-up resistor ensures a defined voltage state, allowing the system to safely transition between power states without damage or data corruption. The apparatus also includes a second battery switch and a voltage regulator, which work together to maintain stable power delivery. The voltage regulator conditions the output from the batteries, ensuring consistent voltage levels for connected devices. The second battery switch may be controlled independently or in coordination with the first switch, depending on system requirements. This design is particularly useful in systems requiring multiple battery sources, such as backup power systems, portable electronics, or industrial control units, where reliable power management is critical. The use of a pull-up resistor during initialization ensures that the system remains in a predictable state, reducing the risk of malfunctions during power transitions.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , the electrical device further comprising a pull-down resistor.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing electrical signals in a circuit, specifically addressing issues related to signal integrity and noise in digital or analog systems. The apparatus includes an electrical device designed to interface with a signal line, where the device is configured to receive and process electrical signals transmitted through the circuit. A key feature of the apparatus is the inclusion of a pull-down resistor connected to the electrical device. The pull-down resistor ensures that the signal line maintains a stable low voltage state when no active signal is present, preventing floating inputs and reducing noise susceptibility. This configuration helps stabilize signal transitions, improves signal reliability, and minimizes power consumption by preventing unnecessary current flow when the signal is inactive. The apparatus may be used in various electronic systems, including microcontrollers, sensors, and communication interfaces, where signal integrity is critical. The pull-down resistor is strategically placed to optimize performance without interfering with normal signal transmission, ensuring efficient operation under different load conditions.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the electrical device generates the initialization pulse and the data word using the first one of the plurality of switches and the pull-down resistor.
This invention relates to an apparatus for generating electrical signals, specifically an initialization pulse and a data word, using a switch and a pull-down resistor. The apparatus addresses the need for reliable signal generation in electronic circuits, particularly in systems requiring precise timing and controlled voltage levels. The apparatus includes a plurality of switches and a pull-down resistor connected to an electrical device. The electrical device generates the initialization pulse and the data word by selectively activating the first switch in the plurality of switches, which interacts with the pull-down resistor to produce the desired signals. The initialization pulse is used to set or reset a circuit or component, while the data word represents binary information for processing or transmission. The pull-down resistor ensures proper voltage levels during signal transitions, preventing floating states or unintended signal fluctuations. This configuration simplifies signal generation by integrating the initialization and data word functions into a single circuit element, reducing component count and improving efficiency. The apparatus is particularly useful in digital communication systems, microcontrollers, and other applications requiring controlled signal generation.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the electronic processor is further configured to generate a signal to electrically connect a second one of the plurality of switches to a second electrical contact of the battery interface based on the correct operating mode being verified.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing electrical connections in a battery system, particularly for verifying and activating correct operating modes. The apparatus includes an electronic processor and a plurality of switches that interface with a battery. The processor is configured to verify the correct operating mode of the battery system, such as charging, discharging, or standby. Once the correct mode is confirmed, the processor generates a signal to electrically connect a first switch to a first electrical contact of the battery interface. Additionally, the processor can generate a further signal to connect a second switch to a second electrical contact of the battery interface, ensuring proper electrical routing based on the verified mode. This selective switching prevents incorrect connections that could damage the battery or associated circuitry. The apparatus may also include a battery interface with multiple electrical contacts for interfacing with different battery terminals or connections. The switches are controlled to route electrical current appropriately, depending on the verified operating mode, enhancing safety and efficiency in battery management systems. The invention is useful in applications requiring precise control over battery connections, such as electric vehicles, energy storage systems, or portable devices.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the signal demultiplexer is further configured to generate a signal to electrically connect the second one of the plurality of battery switches to the second electrical contact.
This invention relates to battery management systems, specifically apparatuses for controlling electrical connections between batteries and external contacts. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and selective switching of battery connections to optimize power distribution or charging processes. The apparatus includes a signal demultiplexer that selectively activates battery switches to connect or disconnect batteries from electrical contacts. The demultiplexer generates control signals to manage these connections dynamically. In this specific embodiment, the demultiplexer is further configured to generate a signal that electrically connects a second battery switch to a second electrical contact. This allows for precise control over which battery is connected to which contact, enabling flexible power routing. The system may be used in applications requiring dynamic power management, such as electric vehicles or renewable energy storage systems, where selective battery connections improve efficiency and safety. The apparatus ensures that only the intended battery is connected to the designated contact, preventing unintended power flows or short circuits. The demultiplexer's ability to generate specific connection signals enhances the system's adaptability to varying power demands or charging conditions.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the second one of the plurality of battery switches is selected based on the data word.
A battery management system controls power distribution in an electronic device using multiple battery switches. The system includes a plurality of battery switches connected to different power sources or battery cells, where each switch can be selectively activated to route power. The system also includes a controller that receives a data word and selects a specific battery switch from the plurality based on the data word. The data word determines which switch is activated, allowing the system to dynamically manage power flow according to the data word's configuration. This selection process ensures efficient power distribution, balancing load across multiple batteries or optimizing power delivery based on operational requirements. The system may also include additional components such as sensors or communication interfaces to monitor battery status and adjust switch selection accordingly. The invention addresses the need for flexible and intelligent power management in devices with multiple battery sources, improving energy efficiency and reliability.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the battery operating mode is an operating mode selected from the group consisting of an I2C operating mode, a near-field communication operating mode, a battery cell voltage monitoring operating mode, and a one-wire operating mode.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing battery operations in electronic devices, addressing the need for flexible and efficient battery monitoring and communication. The apparatus supports multiple operating modes to facilitate different types of interactions with a battery or battery management system. These modes include an I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) operating mode for bidirectional communication with external devices, a near-field communication (NFC) operating mode for wireless data exchange, a battery cell voltage monitoring operating mode for tracking individual cell voltages within a battery pack, and a one-wire operating mode for simplified, single-wire communication. The apparatus dynamically selects and switches between these modes based on system requirements, ensuring compatibility with various communication protocols and monitoring needs. This flexibility enhances battery management efficiency, reduces hardware complexity, and supports diverse applications in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. The invention improves upon prior art by consolidating multiple communication and monitoring functions into a single apparatus, reducing the need for separate components and optimizing power usage.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the data word is received during a specified time window after receiving the initialization pulse.
A system for processing data words in a communication or signal processing apparatus includes a receiver configured to detect an initialization pulse and a processing unit that operates in a specific mode triggered by the initialization pulse. The processing unit is designed to receive and process a data word only within a predefined time window following the initialization pulse. This time window ensures synchronization between the sender and receiver, preventing erroneous data processing outside the valid time frame. The apparatus may include additional components such as a timing circuit to define the time window and a validation module to verify the data word's arrival within the specified period. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise timing, such as digital communication protocols, sensor data acquisition, or synchronized data transmission systems. The time window mechanism enhances reliability by rejecting out-of-sync data, reducing errors in subsequent processing stages. The apparatus may also include error detection or correction features to further improve data integrity. The overall design ensures that data words are only processed when properly synchronized with the initialization pulse, maintaining system accuracy and efficiency.
11. A method for controlling a battery operating mode, the method comprising: connecting an electronic processor of an electrical device to a first electrical contact of a battery interface via a first one a plurality of switches; generating, with the electronic processor of the electrical device, an initialization pulse for a signal demultiplexer of a battery; transmitting the initialization pulse to the signal demultiplexer via the first electrical contact of the battery interface; generating, with the electronic processor, a data word indicating a desired operating mode of the battery; transmitting the data word to the signal demultiplexer via the first electrical contact; generating, with the signal demultiplexer, a signal to electrically connect a first battery switch of a plurality of battery switches to the first electrical contact, the first battery switch selected based on the data word; receiving, with the signal demultiplexer, a signal indicating an operating mode voltage from the first battery switch; receiving, with an analog-to-digital converter of the electrical device, a signal indicating the operating mode voltage to the electronic processor via the first electrical contact; and verifying, with the electronic processor, a correct operating mode based on the operating mode voltage.
The invention relates to battery management systems, specifically methods for controlling battery operating modes in electronic devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable communication between an electronic device and a battery to select and verify the correct operating mode, such as charging, discharging, or standby. The method involves an electronic processor in the device connecting to a battery interface via a switch. The processor generates an initialization pulse and transmits it to a signal demultiplexer in the battery through the interface. The processor then generates a data word specifying the desired battery operating mode and sends it to the demultiplexer. The demultiplexer processes the data word and selects a corresponding battery switch, which connects to the interface. The selected switch provides an operating mode voltage back to the processor via an analog-to-digital converter, allowing the processor to verify the correct mode is active. This ensures proper battery operation and prevents mismatches between the device's intended mode and the battery's actual state. The system avoids complex wiring by using a single contact for bidirectional communication and control.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein a pulse width of the initialization pulse is greater than a pulse width of a reset pulse of a current operating mode of the battery.
A method for managing battery initialization involves generating an initialization pulse with a pulse width greater than that of a reset pulse used in the battery's current operating mode. This technique is applied in battery management systems to address issues related to battery initialization, such as ensuring proper activation or calibration of battery cells. The initialization pulse is designed to provide a stronger or longer-duration electrical signal compared to standard reset pulses, which may be insufficient for certain initialization tasks. By using a wider pulse, the method ensures that the battery cells are fully initialized, improving reliability and performance. This approach is particularly useful in systems where batteries require periodic reinitialization or where standard reset pulses fail to adequately reset or calibrate the battery. The method may be integrated into battery management controllers or charging circuits to enhance initialization procedures. The key innovation lies in the use of a pulse width that exceeds the standard reset pulse width, ensuring effective initialization without requiring additional hardware modifications. This solution is applicable to various battery types, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and other rechargeable batteries, where precise initialization is critical for optimal operation.
13. The method of claim 11 , wherein the signal demultiplexer generates a signal to connect the first battery switch to a pull-up resistor when the initialization pulse is received.
A method for managing battery connections in an electronic system involves controlling switches to isolate or connect batteries during initialization or operation. The system includes multiple batteries, switches, and a signal demultiplexer that routes control signals to the switches. When an initialization pulse is received, the demultiplexer generates a signal to connect a first battery switch to a pull-up resistor. This ensures proper voltage level setting or prevents unintended discharge during startup. The pull-up resistor stabilizes the voltage at the switch, preventing floating states or voltage spikes that could damage components. The method may also include disconnecting other batteries during initialization to prioritize power supply stability. The system may further include a controller that monitors battery status and adjusts switch configurations dynamically to optimize power distribution or protect against faults. The approach improves reliability in battery-powered devices by ensuring controlled initialization and stable power transitions.
14. The method of claim 11 , wherein the electrical device includes a pull-down resistor.
A method for managing electrical devices in a circuit involves using a pull-down resistor to stabilize voltage levels. The pull-down resistor is connected to an input or output terminal of the electrical device to ensure a defined low state when the device is inactive or disconnected. This prevents floating voltages that could lead to erratic behavior or power consumption. The resistor is selected based on the circuit's impedance requirements to balance signal integrity and power efficiency. The method may also include monitoring the voltage at the terminal to detect faults or disconnections. This approach is particularly useful in digital circuits, sensors, or communication interfaces where signal stability is critical. The pull-down resistor ensures reliable operation by maintaining a predictable voltage level, reducing noise susceptibility, and improving system robustness. The technique is applicable in various electronic systems, including microcontrollers, embedded systems, and industrial control devices, where consistent signal behavior is essential for proper functionality.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the electronic processor generates the initialization pulse and the data word using the first one of the plurality of switches and the pull-down resistor.
This invention relates to electronic circuits, specifically a method for generating initialization pulses and data words in a system using switches and pull-down resistors. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable signal generation in digital or mixed-signal circuits, particularly where initialization and data transmission must be controlled precisely. The method involves using a plurality of switches and a pull-down resistor to generate an initialization pulse and a data word. The initialization pulse is used to reset or prepare a circuit for operation, while the data word carries information for processing. The switches are selectively activated to control the flow of current through the pull-down resistor, which in turn generates the required voltage levels for the pulse and data word. The pull-down resistor ensures a stable reference voltage, preventing signal distortion or noise. The method ensures that the initialization pulse and data word are generated with minimal delay and high accuracy, improving system performance. The use of switches and a pull-down resistor simplifies the circuit design while maintaining reliability. This approach is particularly useful in digital communication systems, memory circuits, or any application requiring precise signal timing and integrity. The invention provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for signal generation in electronic systems.
16. The method of claim 11 , further comprising generating, with the electronic processor, a signal to electrically connect a second one of the plurality of switches to a second electrical contact of the battery interface based on the correct operating mode being verified.
This invention relates to battery management systems, specifically methods for verifying and configuring the correct operating mode of a battery interface. The system includes a battery interface with multiple electrical contacts and a plurality of switches that can be selectively connected to these contacts. The method involves verifying the correct operating mode of the battery interface, such as charging, discharging, or maintenance, by analyzing electrical parameters like voltage, current, or resistance. Once the correct mode is confirmed, an electronic processor generates a signal to electrically connect a second switch to a second electrical contact of the battery interface. This ensures proper electrical routing for the verified mode, enhancing safety and efficiency. The system may also include additional switches and contacts, with the processor dynamically configuring connections based on real-time conditions. The invention addresses challenges in battery management, such as preventing incorrect charging or discharging operations, which can damage batteries or reduce their lifespan. By dynamically verifying and adjusting connections, the system improves reliability and performance in battery-powered devices.
17. The method of claim 16 , further comprising generating, with the signal demultiplexer, a signal to electrically connect a second battery switch of the plurality of battery switches to the second electrical contact.
A method for managing electrical connections in a battery system involves controlling a plurality of battery switches to selectively connect or disconnect battery cells from an electrical contact. The method includes monitoring the state of each battery switch and generating control signals to adjust their positions based on operational conditions. Additionally, the method involves generating a signal to electrically connect a second battery switch to a second electrical contact, ensuring proper routing of electrical current within the battery system. This approach optimizes power distribution, enhances safety, and improves efficiency in battery management systems by dynamically configuring connections between battery cells and electrical contacts. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control over battery cell connections, such as electric vehicles or energy storage systems, where maintaining stable and efficient power delivery is critical. By dynamically adjusting switch positions, the system can respond to varying load demands, prevent overcharging or discharging, and ensure reliable operation under different conditions. The method integrates seamlessly with existing battery management systems, providing an adaptive solution for managing electrical connections in complex battery configurations.
18. The method of claim 17 , wherein the second battery switch is selected based on the data word.
A system and method for managing power distribution in an electronic device with multiple batteries and switches. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently routing power between batteries and loads while minimizing energy loss and ensuring reliable operation. The system includes a plurality of batteries, a plurality of switches for selectively connecting the batteries to loads or to each other, and a controller that determines the optimal switch configuration based on operational data. The controller processes a data word, which may include battery status, load requirements, or environmental conditions, to select the appropriate switch settings. This ensures that power is distributed in the most efficient manner, such as prioritizing higher-capacity batteries or isolating faulty components. The method dynamically adjusts switch positions in response to real-time data, improving energy efficiency and system reliability. The invention is particularly useful in portable devices, electric vehicles, or backup power systems where power management is critical. The selection of a second battery switch is determined by analyzing the data word, allowing for adaptive power routing based on current conditions. This approach reduces unnecessary power dissipation and extends battery life.
19. The method of claim 11 , wherein the battery operating mode is an operating mode selected from the group consisting of an I2C operating mode, a near-field communication operating mode, a battery cell voltage monitoring operating mode, and a one-wire operating mode.
This invention relates to battery management systems, specifically methods for operating a battery in different communication and monitoring modes. The problem addressed is the need for a battery to support multiple operating modes to facilitate communication, monitoring, and data exchange with external devices while maintaining efficient power usage. The method involves selecting a battery operating mode from a predefined set of modes, including an I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) operating mode for bidirectional serial communication, a near-field communication (NFC) operating mode for short-range wireless data transfer, a battery cell voltage monitoring operating mode for tracking individual cell voltages, and a one-wire operating mode for simple, single-wire communication. Each mode enables specific functions, such as data exchange, power management, or diagnostic monitoring, depending on the application requirements. The selection of the operating mode allows the battery to adapt to different use cases, such as integration with electronic devices, energy storage systems, or portable electronics, ensuring compatibility and efficient operation. The method ensures that the battery can dynamically switch between these modes to optimize performance and functionality based on external device requirements or system conditions.
20. The method of claim 11 , wherein the data word is received during a specified time window after receiving the initialization pulse.
A system and method for processing data words in a communication protocol involves receiving an initialization pulse to synchronize communication between devices. The method includes receiving a data word during a specified time window following the initialization pulse. The data word is encoded with information, such as control or status data, and is processed to extract the encoded information. The system may include a transmitter and receiver configured to handle the initialization pulse and subsequent data words, ensuring proper timing and synchronization. The method may also involve validating the data word based on its timing relative to the initialization pulse, ensuring reliable communication. The system may further include error detection or correction mechanisms to handle data integrity issues. The technology is applicable in digital communication systems where precise timing and synchronization are critical, such as in industrial control systems, sensor networks, or data acquisition systems. The method ensures that data words are correctly received and processed within a defined time window, reducing errors and improving communication reliability.
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March 18, 2020
February 22, 2022
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